Rejoice, The Hunger Gamesfans! Production has officially started on the Francis Lawrence-directed follow-up, The Hunger Games: Catching Fire. According to their press release, the film “will shoot primarily in existing locations in and near Atlanta, Georgia. The film will subsequently be shot on location in the beaches and jungles of Hawaii before wrapping in late December, 2012.” Perhaps more importantly, the director has recorded a video message for fans, announcing a worldwide sweepstakes that will win some lucky fans a chance to visit the set and participate in a cast and crew Q&A!

Check out the video from Lawrence below (via The Hunger Games: Catching Fire Facebook page). Be patient if the contest site doesn’t load; I believe they’re doing some maintenance on it as of the writing of this article.

THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE – Win a Trip to Set Sweeps!

Got a question for the cast of THE HUNGER GAMES:
CATCHING FIRE? Submit your video & be entered to win a trip to set, take in the sites & sounds of production, hang out with fans from across the world & you may even get the chance to ask your question in person!

THE HUNGER GAMES: CATCHING FIRE begins as Katniss Everdeen has returned home safe after winning the 74th Annual Hunger Games along with fellow tribute Peeta Mellark. Winning means that they must turn around and leave their family and close friends, embarking on a “Victor’s Tour” of the districts. Along the way Katniss senses that a rebellion is simmering, but the Capitol is still very much in control as President Snow prepares the 75th Annual Hunger Games (The Quarter Quell) – a competition that could change Panem forever.